Low Back Pain: Fix the Problem First and You Won't Need to Worry about the Pain

When pain strikes the lower back, we usually think it’s a new problem
or injury. But why was coughing, shaving, doing the laundry, or
whatever activity you were engaged in so different this time? These are things you probably do every day.

So, what is the problem?

The
problem is a joint dysfunction or subluxation (different doctors may
use different terms). This is a ligament problem that occurs by way of
small micro traumas over many years, or sometimes with acute events such
as car accidents or falls. Over time, the ligaments stretch, causing
the joints and vertebrae to displace, irritating the delicate nerve
fibers. But over a few days or weeks, the pain that accompanies this
injury gradually lessens, and in many cases goes away all on its own.

But has the problem also gone away?

Likely
not, because when ligaments are traumatized, the repair mechanism
involves the creation of scar tissue, which is less elastic than the
original tissue, and makes the joint vulnerable to re-injury and
sometimes impairs the free and symmetrical motion of the spine. The
doctor of chiropractic examines for this type of joint sprain using
palpation for tenderness and edema, and possibly x-rays to see the
directions the vertebrae have moved towards. These specific analyses can
tell him or her the vulnerable directions and how the vertebrae need to
be repositioned to promote good alignment and good posture.

The
adjustment is designed to reduce this misalignment and induce more
symmetric motion. When movements are asymmetrical in the spine, they can
lead to premature degeneration of the spine and arthritis. This may be
why a simple task such as lifting a laundry basket can flare up the back
so easily. You may be lifting with good form and posture but with an
asymmetrical spine, the loading is very off balance. Sometimes, the
disks are so damaged that a simple sneeze is enough to cause
excruciating pain. So, when these trivial events seem to trip you up, it
means there is an underlying problem that needs to be addressed and
treated.

Thousands of Doctors of Chiropractic across the United States and Canada have taken "The ChiroTrust Pledge":“To the best of my ability, I agree to provide my patients convenient, affordable, and mainstream Chiropractic care.I will not use unnecessary long-term treatment plans and/or therapies.”

To locate a Doctor of Chiropractic who has taken The ChiroTrust Pledge, google "The ChiroTrust Pledge" and the name of a town in quotes.

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This information should not be substituted for medical or chiropractic advice. Any and all health care concerns, decisions, and actions must be done through the advice and counsel of a health care professional who is familiar with your updated medical history.